2013 NHL Fantasy Sleepers

The NHL suddenly has life, meaning that fantasy fans everywhere are in a mad dash to draft their 2013 NHL fantasy teams.

The only plus one can think of in terms of the lockout is the fact that the NHL will be cruising at a breakneck speed this season. With only a 48-game season beginning on January 19, there's no time to waste.

Now, the excitement for all things hockey is bubbling at the moment. Fearing that this season would never take place, fans may be behind in their fantasy homework.

It's Hard to Believe That Dustin Brown Is on This List, but It's True

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So, why is the captain of the defending Stanley Cup Champion Los Angeles Kings on this list?

On the surface, Dustin Brown's numbers aren't too attractive. In eight years in the league he's never surpassed 60 points. Looking at that number alone one may not realize he's scored 20-plus goals in five straight seasons.

That's not the only reason why he's so valuable.

He valuable because he puts up strong numbers across the fantasy board.

He racked up 293 hits last season, scored on the power play and lit the lamp six times for game-winners in 2011-12. He was also a plus-18 last season and is not afraid to take a penalty.

His 20 points in the playoffs last season also give him momentum heading into this season.

There's a reason why he's captain of the Kings, which just so happens to be the same reason he should find his way onto your roster—he can do it all.

Luke Schenn Will Begin to Blossom in Philly This Season

The Philadelphia Flyers upgraded their defense with the addition of young but experienced Luke Schenn this offseason via a trade with the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Now playing with his younger brother Brayden, the boys will feel right at home, and their all-around improvement in their games will show.

Luke is a stable defender who will benefit from the added offense he'll find in Philly. He also has added value in the hits and blocked shots department. Last season he rattled opponents 270 times and blocked 115 shots.

With that kind of grit he'll quickly become a fan favorite in Philadelphia. Don't be afraid to grab him while you can.

Due to Multiple Injuries in 2011-12, Matt Duchene Is Bound to Be Around Late

Due to the fact that he only played 58 games last season, his draft stock will drop. At only 21 years old, Duchene will be chomping at the bit to get back on the ice.

This is a kid who notched 51 goals and 71 assists in his first two seasons in the league. The Avs are expected to make a push for the playoffs, and they'll need Duchene to be back to his old self if that is to happen.

Look for Duchene to re-establish himself as a franchise cornerstone this season and have all the momentum in the world heading into the 2013-14 season.

There's no doubt that he's still valuable and coveted in the fantasy world, but it seems like he's an afterthought at the moment, thus making him the definition of a sleeper.

And after years of trade talk, he has a great chance to get moved to a contender by the trade deadline sometime in early April. He's in the final season of his existing deal, and the Flames organization will be classy, do him a bittersweet favor and send him on his way.

When he slips past the fourth round, make sure he slides onto your roster.